Another excellent issue, yet one too complex to fully summarize here.The story is getting increasingly complex, as the Defiled are now a major new part of the narrative - beings who are like Zinn and who are also possessing numerous other beings (like Kippa) but who also have theri own agenda and are divided among themselves. This issue also introduces the possibility (or, maybe more accurately, adds further confirmation to the many hints) that the Shaman Empress remains an active presence in the story and maybe even Maika's mother, Moriko. One problem I did have with the issue is that the art, as wonderful as it always is, was also very confusing in parts. This was particularly when Maika and her new passenger, Lore, fight against the Defiled occupying Kippa, Jaar. The story is still advancing but the complex new dimensions mean it is moving forward fairly slowly. Even so, the present issue puts a lot of places into position for an explosive climax - the revelation that the Doctor is not really in control, the plans of his other daughter, The Beast, and Maika's plan to get close enough to the Doctor to, maybe, take back Zinn.

Some random points: I've really liked The Beast ever since she was introduced and she continues to be a low-key MVP in this series. She is presented as smart, capable and very shrewd. She is also powerful and, very slowly, seems to be moving towards becoming an ally for Maika. Corvin is back and I'd like to know more about his relationship with Zortia, his aide. Also, it occurs to me that we have not seen Vinh in some time - I wonder what happened to her and what her machinations are?

Overall, another great issue. more